What is FSSAI Registration?
FSSAI stands for Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, a statutory body established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
It functions under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India and regulates:
- Manufacture
- Storage
- Distribution
- Sale
- Import
- Packaging of food products
Every Food Business Operator (FBO) in India must obtain either:
- FSSAI Basic Registration
- FSSAI State License
- FSSAI Central License
Registration is processed online through the FoSCoS Portal (Food Safety Compliance System).
Types of FSSAI Registration
Basic FSSAI Registration
For small food businesses with annual turnover up to ₹12 Lakhs.
State FSSAI License
For medium-sized businesses with turnover between ₹12 Lakhs and ₹20 Crore.
Central FSSAI License
For large businesses with turnover above ₹20 Crore or those engaged in:
- Import/export
- Multi-state operations
- E-commerce food platforms
- Large manufacturing units
Who Requires Basic FSSAI Registration?
Basic Registration is required for small scale Food Business Operators including:
- Hawkers
- Petty retailers
- Small food stall owners
- Home-based food businesses
- Small manufacturers
- Small storage units
- Small food processing units
- Cottage industries
- Milk units (≤ 500 liters per day)
- Slaughter units (small capacity)
Any person involved in:
- Manufacturing
- Processing
- Packaging
- Storage
- Distribution
- Sale of food
must obtain FSSAI Registration.
Eligibility for Basic FSSAI Registration
Annual Turnover: Up to ₹12 Lakhs
Eligible businesses include:
- Wholesalers
- Retailers
- Food vendors
- Small restaurants
- Dhabas
- Small hotels
- Food manufacturers
- Food delivery kitchens
- Food processing units (small scale)
Benefits of FSSAI Registration
Legal Authorization
Mandatory compliance to operate food business legally.
Consumer Trust
FSSAI logo enhances credibility and customer confidence.
Brand Recognition
Improves brand image in competitive market.
Hygiene & Safety Compliance
Ensures food safety standards and hygiene protocols.
Business Expansion
Required for partnerships with supermarkets and e-commerce platforms.
Protection from Legal Penalties
Avoid heavy penalties for non-compliance.
Import & Export Facilitation
Mandatory for food import/export operations.
Documents Required for Basic FSSAI Registration
- Identity Proof (Aadhaar/PAN/Passport/Voter ID)
- Passport-size Photograph
- Address Proof of Business Premises
- Rent Agreement (if rented)
- NOC from owner (if rented)
- Business Constitution Documents:
- Partnership Deed (if applicable)
- MOA & AOA (for company)
- Incorporation Certificate
- Food Safety Management Plan (basic declaration)
For Manufacturers (Additional Documents):
- List of equipment
- Layout of processing unit
- List of food products
FSSAI Registration Process
Step 1: Visit FoSCoS Portal
Step 2: Select appropriate registration category
Step 3: Fill Form A (Basic Registration)
Step 4: Upload required documents
Step 5: Pay government fee
Step 6: Application scrutiny by department
Step 7: Registration Certificate issued
Time required:
- Basic Registration: 7–10 working days
- State/Central License: Up to 30 days
Validity of FSSAI License
- Valid for 1 to 5 years (as chosen by applicant)
- Renewal must be filed at least 30 days before expiry
- Late renewal penalty: ₹100 per day
Government Fees
Basic Registration Fee:
₹100 per year (government fee)
State and Central license fees vary based on category.
Professional charges are separate.
Compliance Updates
- FoSCoS portal mandatory for all applications
- Annual return required for manufacturers and importers
- Display of FSSAI number mandatory on packaging
- Online modification required for change in business details
- Renewal before expiry is mandatory to avoid cancellation
Frequently Asked Questions
Is FSSAI mandatory for home kitchen business?
Yes, if selling food commercially.
Is FSSAI required for food import?
Yes, Central License required.
Can one FSSAI license cover multiple states?
No. Separate license required for each state.
How long is FSSAI valid?
1 to 5 years based on application.
Is FSSAI required for catering services?
Yes, mandatory.
For professional assistance with FSSAI Registration and compliance, consult experienced professionals to ensure proper documentation and timely approval.
